'Hokusai. Shunga'

This stirring celebration of Hokusai’s (1760–1849) most provocative works delights on every page. Best known for “The Great Wave”, Japan’s most celebrated artist is renowned for his contribution to shunga — or “pictures of spring” — a genre that flourished during the urban culture of the Edo Period. Made to entertain, arouse, and even bring good luck, shunga scenes feature tender and titillating encounters with courtesans, lovers, voyeurs, husbands and wives, and non-human entities. Combining expressive carnality with imaginative humor, this erotic edition reveals raw sensuality in its most graphic, surprising, comic, and surreal forms. 'Hokusai. Shunga' brings together eight complete books and print sets from 1786–1823, with many accompanying narratives composed by the artist himself. Rich in color and detail, with exquisitely rendered textiles throughout, the collection reflects innovations in printing during Hokusai’s lifetime. Up-to-date photography of the works is complemented by an in-depth introduction, and explanatory essays by author Andreas Marks. This enticing title by Taschen, which comes in a stunning printed slipcase, is the perfect gift for Japanophiles, mischievous friends, and lovers.